Since its creation in 1984, 3D printing has come a long ways in terms of complexity and usability. And now the technology is making its way into dentistry, welcoming in a new era of 3D printed teeth for cosmetic purposes. This innovations is looking to create teeth that appear natural and, in some cases, even prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

This new innovation is not quite ready to hit the market, but it is making its slow way past the usual time, cost, and research barriers that any new product must experience before it is released to consumers. For 3D teeth, one important consideration that is still being worked out is whether or not these manufactured teeth will fit well in the mouth and how well the material will stand up to the mouth’s bacterial content. Antimicrobial options are in the process of being pursued to create a type of tooth that is not only cosmetically beneficial, but medically useful, as well.

The purpose of cosmetic dentistry, as its core, is to create better smiles. While this may sound arbitrary, the reality of the confidence and sense of self that having a straight smile with white teeth creates cannot be ignored. Individuals who struggle with oral hygiene or other dental issues tend to work harder to hide their smiles, which damages their self-assurance. Cosmetic dentistry is the solution to this psychological issue, and finding the right cosmetic dentist who can cater their work to your specific needs is a huge step in the right direction.

In the coming years, it will be crucial to keep your eyes and ears open for new innovations in the industry of cosmetic dentistry. 3D tooth printing is merely a starting point to a potentially magnificent future that will fuse the utility of cosmetic dentistry with the power of modern technology.